The first impression is crucial because we only get one chance to make a good first impression and there is no time we should strive more to make a good impression than on a first date. A few years ago, the worst thing you could do on a first date was get too drunk or put out. However, things have changed. Nowadays, with the advent of social media and instant messaging apps, the top first date pet peeves revolve around technology. A lot of people in this social media crazed society miss out on being invited for second dates because of their bad social media etiquette, and they don’t even realise it because our generation considers most of these habits normal. Here are the top social media related first date faux pas:
Instagramming your food
It is not unusual to see self-described foodies taking photos of their food for Instagram and Snapchat, but this seemingly harmless pre-meal ritual might cost you a second date. Most people find it in bad taste to take pictures of food during the first date. Your date might not be too impressed when you whip out your phone and start snapping away at your food. Save your food photography for Sunday brunch with the girls or until you have been going out for a while.
Taking selfies during the date
Ladies, I get it. You spent hours painstakingly applying makeup for the first date. You look fantastic all dolled-up with your perfect makeup and hair. You want to utilise that look by showcasing it to the world. It would be a shame if it all goes to waste! However, if you care at all about that cutie that has asked you out and you’re interested in seeing him again, don’t take selfies while on the date. If you absolutely have to take pictures of yourself, do it before or after the date.
Asking to add your date on social media immediately
Do not ask to friend or follow someone on social media right after the first date. Just because you both use Snapchat doesn’t mean you should add each other immediately. The whole point of going out with someone is to get to know them. When you add someone on social media too soon, you may misinterpret the things you see on his feed because you don’t really know him. For example, you wouldn’t know that the woman he is hugging on his profile picture is his cousin. Hold off on adding or following the person you are dating on social media until you know them well enough.
Constantly checking your phone
Even if you are not doing any of the above, having your phone on your hand during a first date is impolite. Unless you are waiting for an important call or text, you shouldn’t even have your phone on the table and if you do have to pick an important call or answer an important text, let your date
Know beforehand. You will not die if you don’t check your tweets for two hours. Keep your phone safely stowed away during the date.
